JPH1178696A - Outer rear-view mirror - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a working mechanism which can fold up a mirror head automatically. SOLUTION: A rear view mirror positioned outside a car body is composed of a bracket 10 for mounting of mirror, a spigot 11 installed in the bracket, a mirror head 12 supported on the bracket 10 rotatably relative to the spigot, at least one clasp 17 installed between the bracket 10 and mirror head 12 for holding them 10 and 12 in correct positions, a resilience exerting means 23 which works for the clasp 17 between the bracket 10 and mirror head 12 thereby holding the clasp 17 in engaged condition, and a driving means with which the spigot 11 is coupled as capable of working in order to rotate the mirror head 12 relative to the spigot 11.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a mirror operating mechanism, and more particularly, to a mechanism capable of moving a mirror from a use traveling position or an open position to a second position such as an intermediate position or a parking position.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention will be described with reference to its application to wing or side mirrors used in vehicles. However, it should be understood that the present invention should not be limited to the particular applications described herein, as the actuation mechanism of the present invention can be used with other devices, not just mirrors.

[0003] The mirror head is designed to be able to rotate forward or backward about a vertical pivot. The mirror head is held in a running position by a catch that allows the mirror housing to be manually moved to a parking position. That is,
The vehicle can be retracted to a position where it does not hit a passing vehicle or the like or collide with an obstacle. With the mirror in the parked position, the mirror head is substantially parallel to the side of the vehicle, reducing the risk of collision or interference with pedestrians or other vehicles passing by. This is especially useful when parking or driving along narrow or congested roads.

[0004] Usually, known automatic parking mechanisms are designed to drive the mirror head from its normal operating position by applying a torque sufficiently greater than the force holding the catch of the mirror head. I have. In addition, mirror
In the event of a head collision, an extra stop with a greater breaking torque than the first set is required so that the mirror and associated drive means can be manually removed. Of course, a drive mechanism that supplies a torque that is sufficiently stronger than the first set of latch mechanisms is required. This torque is completely sufficient, depending on how firmly the mirror is held in either its operating position or the parking position. To obtain the above sufficient torque, a high power motor having a high noise output is required. Both the mirror head, the bracket and the spigot must be designed to withstand heavy loads, but this usually requires the use of metal components.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is a first object of the present invention to provide a mechanism for automatically folding a mirror head which overcomes the above problems and a special mirror actuation mechanism. is there. Conveniently, the present invention provides that when the vehicle ignition is turned off, the mirror head automatically collapses and when the ignition is turned on again,
It can be used to "pull" the mirror head to its deployed position. A second object of the present invention is to provide a mirror
It is an object to provide a drive means capable of linear and rotational movement of a mirror head or any other member, which requires a combination of the above operations, whether head or otherwise.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention comprises a mirror mounting bracket, a spigot on the mounting bracket, a mirror supported on the mounting bracket for rotation with respect to the spigot, and the mirror mounting bracket. At least one detent located between the mirror mounting bracket and the mirror head to hold the bracket and the mirror head in the correct position; and engaging the detent with the detent. Resilient means operating between the mirror mounting bracket and the mirror head for holding and thereby restraining movement of the mirror head;
Driving means operably coupled to the mirror head for actuating the spigot to rotate the mirror head relative to the spigot; An actuator incorporated in the driving means, which is moved by the driving means during the first operation while suppressing rotation, wherein the catch releases the driving means, Is released, the movement of the actuator causes the elastic means to compress the elastic means so as to rotate the mirror head relative to the spigot and to allow the mirror head to move. A mirror actuating mechanism for rotating the mirror head with respect to the mounting bracket, comprising an actuator adapted to apply a force.

While the invention will be described in its broadest aspect in connection with a mirror head mounted on a mounting bracket, the invention will be described with respect to moving one element relative to another, as well as other elements. It should be understood that can be equally applied. The mirror head moves either in a direction parallel to or transverse to the longitudinal axis of the spigot. The position of the stopper is determined accordingly. For movement parallel to the spigot, a vertical clasp is used; for movement across the spigot, a horizontal clasp is used.

[0008] Preferably, the catch for use with the mirror actuating mechanism has a recess having a set of slopes, said slopes having corresponding projections, also having slopes at each end thereof. Preferably, they are engaged. Alternatively, a spring loaded detent ball can be used in combination with the recess. The drive means preferably comprises an electric motor with an associated drive gear. During its first operation, the actuator operated by the drive means moves the mirror head so that the catch can be released. As the driving means continues to operate, the mirror head rotates and moves to the folded position. When the catch is released, the resistance of the mirror head to subsequent linear movement becomes greater than the resistance to rotation of the mirror head, thereby causing the mirror head to rotate.

For vertical movement of the mirror head, the resilient means comprises a coil spring coaxial with the spigot and presses the mirror head against the catch. in this case,
The vertical movement of the mirror head is controlled by a coil to lift the mirror head so that the latch can be released.
Spring must be compressed. The drive means is supported by journal bearings on the spigot so that the gear axis is coaxial with the spigot and the gear can move longitudinally with respect to the spigot axis. Preferably, the coil spring applies a force directly to the upper surface of the gear and the gear is in abutment with a portion of the mirror head to transmit the force to the catch.

[0010] The actuator preferably includes at least a first ramp on the gear engaged with a corresponding second ramp retained on the spigot. When the drive means is first activated and the first ramp slides up the second ramp, both ramps engage and the gear moves linearly with respect to the longitudinal axis of the spigot. The coil spring suppresses the upward movement of the gear, but when the first inclined surface continues to move with respect to the second inclined surface, the coil spring is compressed, and the gear is moved to the mirror head. Move upward to disengage from. This movement releases the force on the latch and moves the mirror head upward, thereby releasing the latch.

Since there is a slight gap between the first and second inclined surfaces, both inclined surfaces do not engage unless the gear rotates a little. Due to this gap, the gears can always load the mirror head when not in the driving state. This places a load on the latch between the mirror head and the mirror mounting bracket. When the gear has moved sufficiently upwards and the catch has been released, the gear is stationary and the electric motor is started, and the mounting mirror head moves around the stationary gear, thereby causing the mirror mounting bracket to move relative to the mirror mounting bracket. The mirror head rotates.

[0012] The slope can be of various shapes,
Preferably, the projection has an inclined end.
Serrated protrusions may be used. Preferably, three sets of inclined surfaces are provided at equal intervals around the spigot in order to balance the forces on the gears and stabilize the mounting.
A clutch may be built into the assembly.
The clutch can be installed between the gear and the mirror mounting bracket and can include a clutch plate and a clutch stop. This device allows the mirror head to be disengaged by a hand-operated or non-rotatable mirror head.

In addition, by manually or by moving the non-rotatable mirror head, the spring still applies a constant downward load on the catch when the clutch catch is released. , Clutch plate can be located. By doing so, even when the clutch plate is released, the catch can be firmly re-engaged by manually moving the mirror head.

Further, the helper plate may be installed on one surface of the stationary gear on the side, which faces the side including the first and second inclined surfaces. Third and fourth ramps can be installed on both the helper plate and the stationary gear. The helper plate and stationary gear reduce the upward force during the initial rotation of the stationary gear due to the force of the spring. This allows for less power from the electric motor or, for certain electric motor speeds and torques, a larger angle of the bevel on the stationary gear for faster release from the locked state. it can.

The spigot is tubular within which the spring means can be installed, preferably a coil spring. further,
Other components can also be installed in the spigot, which allows more freedom in the mirror design. This also makes it possible to greatly increase the hardness of the spigot as its diameter increases, so that lower strength materials can be used. As a result, manufacture can be facilitated, and less expensive components can be used.

To move the mirror head laterally with respect to the spigot for the purpose of releasing the latch, the actuator is supported by journal bearings so that it can slide relative to the mirror head. And a worm drive on the shaft that engages a gear supported on the spigot. When the drive means first rotates, a worm gear engaged with the fixed gear moves the shaft along its longitudinal axis, so that the movement of the shaft is transmitted to the mirror head and the mirror head moves relative to the spigot. Is moved laterally, compressing the resilient means, thereby causing the mirror head to move laterally and release the catch.

Preferably, the housing is mounted on the spigot, and the shaft is supported by journal bearings so as to be slidable with respect to the housing. The mirror head has a housing
Mounted to the housing to prevent rotation of the mirror head with respect to the spigot, but the housing is mounted to allow the mirror head to move laterally with respect to the spigot. . Preferably, the resilient means comprises a coil spring located between the housing and the mirror head, and preferably pushes the mirror head so that the catch engages.

When the drive means first rotates and moves laterally with the shaft, one end of the shaft is pushed against the mirror head, forcing it away from the catch. This compresses the spring, which results in the mirror
The head can move laterally and release the catch. When the catch is released, the force required to further compress the coil spring is greater than the force required to rotate the mirror head. If the drive means continues to operate, the shaft will also rotate continuously, with the result that the worm gear will drive the gear preferentially. Thereby, the mirror head rotates.

The shaft and the worm gear are arranged so that they can be moved laterally for a very short distance, and with this slight lateral movement the catch can be completely released and the mirror head can be moved. Can rotate. Preferably, when the mirror head makes one complete rotation, the mirror head is brought into abutting state against the stop, and the supply of current to the motor is stopped electronically due to an increase in the motor current. Is preferred. The clutch means may be located between the gear and the spigot, and the spigot may move the gear and the mirror head relative to the spigot when a force is applied to the mirror head. For example, if the mirror head is impacted in either direction, the clutch can release the stationary gear, so that the mirror head and associated drive can rotate relative to the spigot. Also, if movement of the mirror is impeded while the mirror is being driven to or from the folded position, the clutch is disengaged and the mirror does not stop in the middle of the movement.

Preferably, the clutch provides a spring bearing for the stationary gear and sufficient holding force for normal operation of the actuation mechanism, but when sufficient force is applied to the mirror head. It is preferred to have a clutch stop under the gear, which is released. For both vertical and lateral movements of the mirror head, when the catch is released, the mirror head can rotate slightly, since the force on the catch is removed Because. This is due to the slow outward movement of the mirror head and a corresponding readjustment of the catch position.

[0021]

1 to 5 show a first embodiment. The mirror mounting bracket 10 is fixed to the side of the automobile. A spigot 11 is mounted on the mirror mounting bracket 10. The spigot 11 has a vertical axis, and the mirror head 12 has a spigot 11
It is mounted so that it can rotate around the vertical axis. An important operation of the present invention is the rotation of the mirror head 12 from the open position to the folded position, in which the mirror head 12 is substantially parallel to the side of the vehicle, and Twelve mirror glasses are in contact with the body. Preferably, this operation is performed by manual control or when the ignition is turned off. The present invention also allows the mirror to re-open, either by manual control or when the ignition is turned on.

In the case of this embodiment, the spigot 11
Is tubular and is held on the mirror mounting bracket 10 by a threaded fixing device 13. A part of the mirror operating mechanism of this embodiment is incorporated in a casing 14, which is fixed to the mirror head 12. The casing 14 has a cylindrical bearing surface 15 supported on the outer surface of the spigot 11 by a journal bearing. Therefore, the casing 14 and the attached mirror head 12 can be rotated with respect to the spigot 11.

The stopper 17 is provided between the casing 14 and the spigot 11. In this embodiment, the catch 17 comprises three protrusions 18 on the base of the spigot 11 and corresponding recesses 19 on the base of the casing 14.
including. The projections 18 and the recesses 19 have inclined surfaces 20 and 21 that help release the catch when the casing 14 rotates with respect to the spigot 11. The projection 18 does not completely engage in the recess 19. This ensures that the casing 14 does not abut against the base of the spigot 11. Therefore, the catch engages firmly,
All relative rotational movements of the casing 14 with respect to the spigot 11 are suppressed.

The tubular spigot 11 allows several components to be installed in the spigot 11.
In this embodiment, the tube 22 is located in the spigot 11, and the axis of the tube 22 is coaxial with the spigot 11. In this embodiment,
The resilient means includes a coil spring 23 located on the outer surface of the tube 22. The tube 22 has a flange 24 at a lower end thereof, and a lower end of a spring 23 is connected to the lower end in a butt state.

The tube 22 extends beyond the upper end of the spigot 11. The gear 25 is supported on the tube 22 by a journal bearing. The gear 25 is located on the upper end of the spigot 11 and
1 with a flange 26 located between them. The flange 26 is a part of the casing 14. The gear 25 is connected to the upper edge of the flange 26 in a butted state. The retainer 29 is held at an end of the tube 22. The retainer 29 does not rotate with respect to the tube 22.

The spring 23 pushes the tube 22 downward, so that the retainer 29 applies a force to the upper surface of the gear 25. The gear 25 presses the gear 25 against the flange 26, and the flange 26 presses the casing 14 downward against the spigot 11. In this way,
Spring 23 applies that force to the catch at the base of spigot 11.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, casing 14 houses an electric motor 30, which drives a drive gear assembly. Drive gear
The assembly includes a worm drive 31 that is mounted directly on the electric motor 30. Worm drive 3
1 drives a reduction gear assembly that includes a first gear 32 and a smaller gear 33. The first and second gears 32 and 33 have a common axle 34 supported in the casing 14 by journal bearings. Third gear 3 connected to worm drive 36
5, including another speed reducer assembly. Third gear and worm gears 35 and 36
Have a common shaft 37 and are supported within the casing 14 by journal bearings. The second gear 33 is engaged with the third gear 35 to rotate the worm drive 36. The worm drive 36 engages with the gear 25.

When the stopper 17 is engaged, the electric motor 30
And the associated gear drive operates to cause the worm drive 36 to rotate the gear 25. When the catch 17 is released, the electric motor 30 continues to operate, thereby keeping the gear 25 stationary, and consequently the worm drive 36 and thus the mirror head mounted with the casing 14 12 rotates about the gear 25 and the spigot 11. Details of this operation will be described below.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show the lifting plate 40.
And the clutch plate 41. The lifting plate 40 and the clutch plate 41 are located at the ends of the tubular spigot 11. The lifting plate 40 including the gear 25 includes an actuator that moves the gear 25 up when the electric motor is first operated. When any external force is applied to the mirror head while the electric motor 30 is operating or the electric motor 30 is not operating, the clutch plate 41 may be separated from the mirror head. it can. The upper end of the spigot tube 11 has a shelf 43, around which a lifting plate 40 and a clutch plate 41 are rotatably supported by journal bearings.

The lifting plate 40 includes a ring portion 45 located in a circular recess at the upper end of the spigot 11 so that the ring 45 is located on the shelf 43. The lower surface of the ring 45 has three rounded ridges 46 connected in abutting manner to the inner peripheral portion of the shelf 43. Ring 45
Has three projections 47 on its upper surface. Each projection has a second inclined surface 50, a first vertical surface 51, and a second vertical surface 52.

The gear 25 is mounted on the lifting plate 40
It has three protrusions 55 located in the space between the plurality of protrusions 47. The protrusion 55 is formed between the second inclined surface 50 and the vertical surface 5.
7 has a first inclined surface 56 connected in abutting state. There is a narrow gap between the projection 55 and the ring 45,
This ensures that the gear 25 is always pressed against the flange 26 of the casing 14.

The lifting plate 40 is normally held against the spigot 11 as well. When the electric motor 30 first rotates, the worm drive 36 slightly rotates the gear 25 relative to the lifting plate 40. Gear 2
As the wheel 5 continues to rotate, the first inclined surface 55 and the second inclined surface 50 are slidably engaged, whereby the gear 25 rises vertically. This movement is impeded by the spring 23, which is weaker than the engaging force of the stopper 17.
As a result, the mirror head is raised vertically and the catch 1
The lifting movement of the gear 25 continues until it rises sufficiently on the flange 26 so that it can be released. When the catch 17 is released, the force required to raise the gear 25 against the force of the spring 23 is
The force required to rotate the head 12 becomes stronger, and as a result, the operation of the worm drive device 36 continues to drive itself around the fixed gear 25. as a result,
The casing 14 and the mounting mirror head 12
Rotate around the spigot.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5 is an actuation mechanism for use with the right mirror. The gear 25 of this embodiment has a pair of first inclined surfaces 56 on both side surfaces of the protrusion 55, so that it can be used as a mirror on either the left or right side. Of course, the left lifting plate 40 requires a second inclined surface 50 on the opposite side of the protrusion 47, as shown in this embodiment. The clutch plate 41 is held between the spring 23 and the lower surface of the shelf 43. Each shelf 43 is located in a recess 58 of the clutch plate 41. The lower surface of the shelf 43 and the recess 58 include a clutch stopper.

The lifting plate 40 and the clutch plate 41 cannot rotate with each other.
The lifting plate 41 is supported by journal bearings so that it can rotate about the tube 22, and the clutch plate 41 can slide longitudinally along the tube 22.

The tube 22 includes three longitudinal channels 61 radially spaced around its surface. Each channel 61 is a tube 2
2 extends to the right towards the upper end. To limit the relative rotation of the clutch plate 41 with respect to the tube 22, the clutch plate has three ears 62 that engage each channel 61. Tube 22 slides through the center of clutch plate 41 to the correct position. When the ear 62 engages the channel 61, the clutch plate 41 can slide axially along the tube 22.

The clutch plate 41 has three posts 5 located in the recesses 60 of the lifting plate 40.
Have nine. When the post 59 is engaged with the recess 60, the clutch plate 41 cannot rotate with respect to the lifting plate 40. However, while maintaining the engagement with the recess 60 between the posts 59, the clutch plate 41 The clutch plate 41 can be separated to some extent in the axial direction.

The clutch plate 41 has a radial recess 63 in a peripheral portion thereof. The inner surface of the spigot 11 has three longitudinal ribs 64 with which a radial recess 63 is engaged. These ribs allow the clutch plate 41 to be inserted into the spigot 11 from its base. The longitudinal ribs 64 do not exceed the height of the spigot 11 and when the radial recess 63 is released from the end of the rib 64, the clutch plate 41 can rotate, so that the recess 58 is engaged with the shelf 43. The pitch circle diameter of the outer surface of the post 59 is located within the inner diameter of the projection 43. Therefore, when the clutch plate 41 moves downward and the shelf 43 is released from the recess 58, the clutch plate 41 and the post 59 can completely rotate with respect to the spigot 11.

In this embodiment, the retainer 29 comprises a helper plate, and the retainer 29 has three inclined surfaces 66 that engage the fourth inclined surface 67 on the gear 25. The direction of inclination of the third and fourth inclined surfaces 66, 67 is the same as the direction of inclination of the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50, but the third and fourth inclined surfaces with respect to the horizontal direction. The inclination angles of 66 and 67 are gentler than the inclination angles of the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50. This ensures that the gear 25 is raised somewhat, but somewhat, by the relative movement between the third and fourth inclined surfaces 66 and 67 due to the downward pressure of the spring 23. On the other hand, at the same time, if necessary, the gear 25 is moved against the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50.
Enough downward force to be able to push down. Of course, the third and fourth ramps 66
If the angle of and 67 is the same as the angle of the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50, no downward force is applied to the gear 25. If the angles of the third and fourth inclined surfaces 66 and 67 with respect to the horizontal direction are made gentle,
The entire downward force is applied. This overall downward force must be sufficient to overcome the frictional load between the various ramps.

The retainer 29 is provided at the opening 7 of the tube 22.
It has a plurality of projections 69 that engage within zero. Retainer 29
Is pressed against the end of the tube with the ear 71 engaging the channel 61. Thereby, rotation of the retainer 29 with respect to the tube 22 is prevented. The retainer 29 is pushed into the correct position until the projection 69 enters the opening 70. Due to the compression of the spring 23, an upward force is applied to the retainer 29, and the position of the protrusion 69 in the opening 70 holds the retainer 29 in the correct position of the tube 22.

When current is supplied to the electric motor 30, the worm drive 36 applies a clockwise force to drive the gear 25. The movement of the worm drive 36 and the casing 14 around the gear 25 is prevented by the engagement of the catch 17. At this stage, the force required to release the catch 17 is greater than the force required by the worm drive 36 to rotate the gear 25 against the first and second ramps 56,50. As the worm drive 36 continues to drive the gear 25, the first slope 56 will slide along the second slope 50. Thereby, the gear 25 moves up. This is a rising motion performed against the force of the spring 23. Worm drive 3
6 continues to operate, the gear 25 moves to the flange 26
Rise beyond. Thereby, the angled surface 20 of the clasp 17 slides together with the third and fourth inclined surfaces 66, 67, thereby providing additional force to help compress the spring 23.

Naturally, the shallow angles of the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50 require less force to rotate the gear 25 in opposition to the spring 23. However, the disadvantage of reducing the angle is that the gear 25
Is very slow. Thus, the rapid rise of the gear 25 when the angles of the first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50 are increased has an angle on the third and fourth inclined surfaces 66 and 67 and the clasp 17. It is mitigated by the forces provided by surfaces 20 and 21. This minimizes the lifting load on the gear 25, but at the same time ensures a rapid rise. This means that the electric motor requires less power and operates quietly and quickly.

As the gear 25 continues to rise, the catch 17 reaches a point where it can be easily released. In this regard, the force required to rotate casing 14 and mirror head 12 relative to spigot 11 is less than the force required to raise gear 25. In such a situation, the gear 25 remains stationary and the worm drive 36 drives itself about the gear 25 with the casing 14 and the mirror head 12. As you can see right away, this causes the mirror head to rotate and fold. As the electric motor 30 rotates, the mirror head 12 continues to rotate until the mirror head moves to its folded position. At this point, further rotation of the mirror head 12 is limited, thereby increasing the current flowing through the electric motor. This increase in current can be sensed and electronic control is performed to stop supplying current to the electric motor 30.

The electric motor 3 moves the mirror head 12 from its folded position to its open position.
When the current is supplied again to 0, the electric motor 30 operates again to rotate the gear 25. Not surprisingly,
The rotation direction of the electric motor 30 is opposite to the rotation direction when the mirror head 12 is folded. When the gear 25 first rotates, the vertical surface 57 on the protrusion 55 of the gear 25 engages the second vertical surface 52 on the lifting plate 40.
This prevents further rotation of the gear 25 and the worm drive 36 moves around the gear 25. Thereby, the casing 14 and the mirror head 12 rotate and move to the open position. In the open position, the catch 17 is re-engaged and the current flowing through the electric motor increases, and this increase in current is sensed, and as a result, the supply of current to the electric motor 30 stops.

Even if the electric motor 30 is not operating or is operating, if an excessive force is applied to the mirror head 12, the clutch plate 41 is disconnected and the mirror head 12 can rotate freely. Become like For example, when the mirror head 12 is pushed in either direction, the vertical surface 57 on the gear 25 will cause a first or second vertical surface 51 depending on the direction of rotation of the mirror head 12.
Or 52 is engaged. Thereby, the rotational force is transmitted from the lifting plate 40 through the post 59 to the clutch
It is transmitted to the plate 41. If the force is large enough, the clutch plate 41 moves downward with respect to the tube 22 and the shelf 43 can be disengaged from the recess 58. As a result, the clutch plate and the clutch
Tube 22 rotatably mounted on plate 41, lifting plate 40 rotatably mounted on clutch plate 41, and first or second vertical surface 51 of vertical surface 57. Or 52 and the gear 25 limited by engagement with the casing 14 can freely rotate with respect to the spigot 11. As a result, the stopper 17 is released.

Thus, the mirror head 12 is
It can be manually moved to the folded position. In this manner, the clutch plate 41 is released from the shelf 43. As the electric motor 30 rotates further, the gear 25 rotates until the clutch plate re-engages the shelf 43. Thereby, the assembly can perform a normal operation.

During the rotation of the electric motor 30, if the mirror head 12 is caught halfway, such as when it hits an obstacle, the worm drive 36 stops rotating with respect to the spigot 11, Until the vertical surface 57 contacts the first or second vertical surface 51 or 52,
To rotate. Thereafter, the lifting plate 40 is driven by the gear 25 and passes through the post 59 to engage the clutch.
The plate is driven, so that the shelf 43 is released from the recess 58. Alternatively, the shelf 43 can be
The load required to release the current,
The current supply to the electric motor 30 may be stopped by the current sensing circuit.

FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of the present invention, which differs from the first embodiment in that a clutch plate 41a is provided.
Are located on the gear 25a.
In this embodiment, the spigot 11 is fixed to the mirror mounting bracket 10 by a fixing device 72 with a thread. All that is required is a single threaded locking device 72. Tube 22 and spring 23
Are located in the tubular spigot 11. The lifting plate 40a is held under the flanged finger 73 at the end of the spigot 11. Thereby, the lifting plate 41a with respect to the spigot 11
Is prevented from moving in the longitudinal direction, but can rotate. The spring 23 is pressed against the lower surface of the lifting plate 40a. The gear 25a is located above the lifting plate 40a,
a has a tubular extension 74a on which a gear 25a is supported by a journal bearing.

The clutch plate 41a has a gear 25a
, The engagement surface of the clutch plate 41a and the gear 25a perform the function of a helper plate. These members include third and fourth inclined surfaces 66 and 67 that assist in upward movement of the gear 25a. The tubular extension 74a has a knurled end that engages a corresponding recess in the clutch plate so that the clutch plate 41a cannot rotate independently of the lifting plate 40a, but is Along,
It can move vertically with respect to the lifting plate 40a.

The upper surface of the clutch plate 41a is connected to the lower surface of the retainer 29a in an abutting state. The upper surface of the clutch plate 41a has a number of V-shaped protrusions 76 located in the V-shaped recess 77 of the retainer 29a. The retainer 29a is held on the end of the tube 22 and therefore cannot rotate or move longitudinally with respect to the tube 22.

When the electric motor 30 operates, the gear 25a
Rises, thereby removing the downward load applied to the stopper 17a. Thereby, when the electric motor 30 continues to operate, the mirror head 12 can rotate. The third and fourth inclined surfaces 66 and 67 are:
It assists the upward movement of the gear 25a. If the mirror head is to be removed or the mirror head is caught halfway, the engagement between the V-shaped recess and the projections 66 and 67 is released. Further, when the mirror head 12 is manually moved from the folded position to the open position, the engagement between the V-shaped recess and the projections 76 and 77 is released, but the gear 25
A force is still applied to the upper surface of a, which places a load on the stopper 17a. Thus, when the mirror head 12 is manually moved outward, the stopper 17a can be reliably moved.

FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
The major difference in this embodiment is that all elements are
That is, the spigot 11 is supported on the outer surface by a journal bearing. The lifting plate 40b is supported by journal bearings on the outer surface of the spigot 11 and includes a tubular extension 74b. The gear 25b
The outer surface of the tubular extension 74b is supported by a journal bearing. The gear 25b is connected to the flange 26 in a butt state. The clutch plate 41b is located on the gear 25b. Clutch stop disc 79
Are located on the clutch plate 41b. The spring 23b is located between the clutch stop disc 79 and the spring disc 80b. The spring disc 80b is fixed to the spigot 11, so that the spring 23b applies a compressive load on the upper surface of the clutch stop disc 79 and transmits the force to the catch 17b through the butt portion of the flange 26 with the gear 25b. I do.

This embodiment uses a worm drive 82b to drive a reduction gear 83b, which is a slight modification of the gear drive in that it drives a gear 25b.

As in the second embodiment, the tubular extension 74b has a jagged end which engages a corresponding recess in the clutch plate 41b.
This prevents relative rotational movement between the lifting plate 40b and the clutch plate 41b,
The clutch plate 41b is movable with respect to the longitudinal axis of the spigot 11. As in the second embodiment, the clutch plate 41b and the gear 25b
Has a third and a fourth inclined surface 66 and 67, and the abutting surface between the upper surface of the clutch plate 41b and the clutch stop disc 79 has a V-shaped projection 76 and a recess 77. including.

The actuator for raising the gear 25b is the same as that of the second and third embodiments. The actuator comprises first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50, which are provided on the electric motor 3.
When 0 operates first, they slide with each other. As a result, the gear 25b rises, the downward load force on the catch 17b is removed, and the casing 14 and the mirror head 12 rise. When these members have been raised sufficiently, the catches 17b are released and the mirror head 12 rotates in a manner similar to that described in the first embodiment.

First and second vertical surfaces 51 and 52,
The operation of the vertical plane 57 is the same as the operation described in the first embodiment. As in the second embodiment, even though the V-shaped projections and recesses 76 and 77 are released, the flange 26 is always under downward load through the gear 25b and the mirror head 12
Is manually returned to the open position, the flange 26 allows the stopper 17b to be reliably moved.
This is also the same as in the first embodiment. This is an important safety feature. This is because it ensures that the catch 17b will re-engage if the mirror is manually moved in the open position.

FIG. 8 shows a fourth embodiment. This embodiment is a simpler assembly as compared to the first embodiment, but has the disadvantage that the force is not firmly applied to the catch 17c when the clutch plate 41c is disconnected. In the case of the fourth embodiment, the clutch plate 41c is supported on the outer surface of the spigot 11 by a journal bearing. The gear 25c is supported by a journal bearing on the tubular extension 74c of the clutch plate 41c. Spring 23c
Operates between the upper surface of the gear 25c and the spring disk 80c. The spring disk 80c is fixed to the spigot 11, compresses the spring 23c, and applies a force to the upper surface of the gear 25c. The gear 25c is connected to the flange 26 in a butt state.
Applies a load to the stopper 17c. In this embodiment, the catch is a ball held in a corresponding recess.

In this embodiment, the clutch plate 41c is held between the gear 25c and the base of the spigot 11. The actuator is located between the lower butting surface of the gear 25c and the upper surface of the clutch plate 41c and includes first and second inclined surfaces 56 and 50. The vertical surfaces 57 and 51 are
And 50 at the ends to prevent the gear 25c from rotating relative to the clutch plate 41c. The posts 85 are located in corresponding recesses of the gear 25c and are connected in abutting manner to the surface of the gear 25c to prevent rotation in other directions. This allows the mirror
All the forces applied to the head 12 can be transmitted to the clutch plate 41c through the gear 25c,
The clutch plate includes a V-shaped projection and recess 76.
And 77 can be disconnected.

In the gear driving device of the fourth embodiment, the electric motor 30 drives the worm driving device 82c, and the driving device itself drives the second reduction device 84c. Is different from each of the above embodiments in that The second reduction gear 84c drives the gear 25c. The helper disk 86 is used for the gear 2
Mounted on top of 5c, it has third and fourth ramps 66 and 67 on the base of the helper disk and on top of gear 25c. Further, the tubular extension 74c includes
It has a jagged edge, which is the helper disk 8
Engaging the opening in 6, preventing relative rotation between the two components, the helper disk 86 can move relative to the clutch plate 41c.

FIGS. 9 to 11 show a fifth embodiment.
This embodiment is first to fourth in that the mirror head 12 moves laterally with respect to the spigot 11, instead of the mirror head 12, which moves vertically along the axis of the spigot 11. Is different from the embodiment. However, to be able to release, the mirror head 12
A similar operating principle is used in that it moves away from the stop 17.

In the case of this embodiment, the housing 87
Is attached to the spigot 11 by a pivot.
The mirror head 12 is mounted on the housing 87 and thus can slide with respect to the housing 87 to engage and release the catch 17d. The coil spring 23d is connected to the mirror head 12
And a housing 87 that pushes the mirror head 12 in a direction to be engaged with the stopper 17d. In this embodiment, the catch includes a substantially V-shaped projection 88 located within a V-shaped recess 89.

The gear 25d is supported on the spigot 11 by a journal bearing. Second spring 9
1 is an upper surface of the gear 25d and a spring disk 80
and d. The release clutch includes a stop ball 90 located at the base of the gear 25d. The shaft 92 is supported by a journal bearing so that it can slide into the housing 87. The shaft 92 can rotate about its axis and can move longitudinally along the axis. Shaft 9
2 is driven by the electric motor 30 which drives the gear 93 by the worm drive 82d. The shaft 92 is
It has a worm drive 95 that engages with the gear 25d.

When the electric motor 30 is operated for the first time, the worm drive 95 pushes the shaft 92 along the longitudinal axis,
As a result, the end 96 of the shaft 92 is
Press 2. The gear 93 is wide enough to ensure that engagement with the worm drive 82 is maintained. Shaft 9
2 is moved laterally by the engaging catch 17d, and provides a force for preventing rotation of the worm drive 95 around the gear 25d. Thus, the shaft 92 and the associated worm drive 95 cause the mirror head 1 to compress the spring 23d and release the catch 17d.
2 to move the actuator.

As in all embodiments, the electric motor 3
When 0 is activated for the first time, a combination operation is performed. That is, when the mirror head 12 moves, the stopper 17
d is released, and consequently the mirror head 12 rotates slightly as the catch 17d is gradually released.
That is, the driving means rotates the mirror head 12,
As a result, the change in the position of the stopper 17d is readjusted.

In the case of the fifth embodiment, when a shock is applied to the mirror head 12 or the mirror head 12 is manually moved, a sufficient force to raise the gear 25d perpendicularly to the spring 91 causes the clutch / stop. It costs money 90. As a result, the mirror head 12 is attached to the mirror mounting bracket 10.
Can rotate freely.

[0065]

According to the present invention, there is provided a mechanism capable of automatically folding a mirror head and a special mirror operating mechanism which solve the problems of the prior art.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the mirror operating mechanism near a traversing line 1-1 in FIG.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the same sectional view as the mirror operating mechanism of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the mirror operating mechanism, taken along section line 3-3 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the components assembled around the spigot of the mirror bracket.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a stop gear and a lifting plate.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a partial plan sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is the same partial cross-sectional view as FIG. 10, but with the catches partially released.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 mirror mounting bracket 11 spigot 12 mirror head 14 casing 15 bearing surface 17 stopper 22 tube 23 spring 25 gear 26 flange 29 retainer 30 electric motor 32, 35 gear 34 axle 36 worm drive device 40 plate 41 clutch plate 43 shelf 47, 55, 69, 76 Protrusion 58 Recess 59, 85 Post 61 Channel 62 Ear 64 Rib 79 Disk 87 Housing 92 Shaft

Claims (39)

[Claims] 1. An external rearview mirror, a mirror mounting bracket, a spigot on the mounting bracket, a mirror head supported on the mounting bracket so as to be rotatable with respect to the spigot, And at least one stop provided between the mirror mounting bracket and the mirror head to hold the mirror mounting bracket and the mirror head in a correct position; and And hold
Resilient means operating between the mirror mounting bracket and the mirror head, thereby constraining the movement of the mirror head; and the mirror mirror for rotating the mirror head with respect to the spigot. Drive means operatively coupled to the spigot to the head; and the engaging catch engages the drive means during the first operation while restraining rotation of the mirror head. An actuator built into the drive means, wherein the catch releases the drive means, and when the catch is released, movement of the actuator causes the mirror to move relative to the spigot. Applying a force to the elastic means to compress the elastic means so as to rotate the head and allow the mirror head to move. The outside of the back mirror and a to have actuator become. 2. A gear mounted on the spigot such that the drive means is coaxial with a vertical axis of the spigot, wherein the drive means is actuated, and A drive engaged with the gear so as to rotate about the gear to rotate the mirror head when the force on the gold is sufficiently released. The external rearview mirror according to claim 1. 3. The resilient means acts on the gear and the gear is butt-connected to a portion of the mirror head for transmitting force to the catch. An external rearview mirror according to claim 2. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the actuator rotates relative to the longitudinal axis of the spigot when the driving means is first actuated and the retaining force applied to the catch is rotated so as to be released. The inclined surface is held against the spigot so as to linearly move the gear,
4. The external rearview mirror of claim 3, comprising a combination of a first bevel on the gear engaging a second bevel. 5. The external rearview mirror of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of combined first and second inclined surfaces. 6. The external rearview mirror according to claim 4, wherein said spigot is tubular. 7. An external rearview mirror according to claim 6, wherein said gear is located above said spigot. 8. A tube further comprising said resilient means located therein and extending beyond said spigot and said gear supported by journal bearings within said tube; and at a lower end of said tube an outer tube. A radially extending flange, a radially inwardly extending shelf at the upper end of the spigot, and a compression coil positioned around the tube and between the flange and the shelf. The external rearview mirror of claim 7, comprising a spring and a retainer on an end of the tube that is pressed against the gear and applies a downward force on the gear. 9. Further, located below the lower surface of the gear,
9. The external rearview mirror of claim 8, further comprising a lifting plate supported on the tube by a journal bearing and held against the spigot and the plurality of second inclined surfaces located on an upper surface of the lifting plate. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a rotation limiter disposed between the lifting plate, and the gear that limits an amount of relative rotation between the lifting plate and the gear. External rearview mirror. 11. The rotating limiter comprises a plurality of engaging vertical surfaces on both the lifting plate and the gear, which are butt-connected to prevent relative rotation, wherein the engaging vertical surfaces are provided. 11. The external rearview mirror according to claim 10, wherein the external rearview mirror has an interval in one rotation direction so as to be able to move sufficiently between the first and second inclined surfaces. 12. The second inclined surface on the lifting plate includes a first surface located at an upper end of an end of each of the second inclined surfaces and extending vertically therefrom, and The gears are spaced apart from the vertical surfaces on each of the second inclined surfaces so that the second inclined surfaces can move sufficiently relative to each other before the first vertical surfaces engage. Having a corresponding first vertical surface located on top of
External rearview mirror as described. 13. The gear according to claim 12, wherein the lifting plate is connected in abutting condition with a vertical surface adjacent to the second inclined surface to prevent rotation in a direction opposite to the rotation of claim 12. 13. The external rearview mirror of claim 12, having a corresponding second vertical surface above. 14. Further located between the spigot shelf and an end of the coil spring held against the tube but movable along the tube. A clutch plate not rotatable with respect to the lifting plate; an upper surface of the clutch plate; and, when the driving means is operated, restraining movement between the clutch plate and the spigot. But with a lower surface of the shelf to release the clutch detent and rotate the mirror head when sufficient force is applied to the mirror head. 10. The external rearview mirror of claim 9 comprising a clutch stop located therebetween. 15. The outer bag according to claim 14, wherein the clutch catch includes a plurality of protrusions on the shelf and a corresponding plurality of recesses on the clutch plate where the protrusions are located. ·mirror. 16. The external rearview mirror of claim 15, wherein said shelf comprises a plurality of shelf segments around said spigot, each said shelf segment also comprising said protrusion located in said recess. 17. The tube has a plurality of longitudinal channels, and the clutch plate engages the channels to prevent rotation of the clutch plate relative to the tube, but along the clutch plate. 15. The external rearview mirror of claim 14, wherein the external rearview mirror has a plurality of ears that can move. 18. The clutch plate having a plurality of posts, wherein the lift plate internally separates the clutch plate from the lift plate while preventing relative rotation therebetween. 15. A plurality of recesses, wherein the posts that can be located are located.
External rearview mirror as described. 19. The retainer has a third inclined surface,
The upper surface of the gear has a fourth inclined surface that engages with the third inclined surface, and the inclination directions of the third and fourth inclined surfaces are the same as the first and second inclined surfaces. The inclination angles of the third and fourth inclined surfaces with respect to the horizontal direction are gentler than the first and second inclined surfaces, and the retainer cannot be rotated with respect to the tube. 8. An external rearview mirror according to 8. 20. A tube extending beyond the gear wheel, the resilient means being further positioned therein and supported within the spigot and the tube by journal bearings, and a lower end of the tube. By the way, a flange extending radially outward, the lifting plate is provided on the upper surface of the spigot lifting plate, so that the lifting plate can rotate with respect to the plurality of second inclined surfaces. A lifting plate held in the upper end, a compression coil spring located around the tube and located between the flange and the lifting plate, and pressed against the gear, facing down on the gear And a retainer on the end of said tube for applying a force. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, further comprising a rotation limiter disposed between the lifting plate, and the gear that limits an amount of relative rotation between the lifting plate and the gear. External rearview mirror. 22. A clutch plate located between the upper surface of the gear and the retainer, the clutch plate being held relative to the tube but movable along the tube. Means for preventing relative rotation between the clutch plate and the lifting plate; and an upper surface of the clutch plate; and a mechanism for preventing the relative rotation between the clutch plate and the retainer when the driving means is operated. A lower surface of the retainer that has sufficient holding force to restrain movement but when sufficient force is applied to the mirror head, releases the clutch detent and allows the mirror head to rotate. 22. The external rearview mirror of claim 21, further comprising a clutch stop located between the rearview mirror and the clutch. 23. The outer bag of claim 22, wherein the clutch catch includes a plurality of protrusions on the clutch plate and a corresponding plurality of recesses on the retainer where the protrusions are located. mirror. 24. The clutch plate having a third ramp, the upper surface of the gear having a fourth ramp engaging the third ramp, and the third and fourth ramps. The inclination direction is the same as the first and second inclined surfaces, and the inclination angle of the third and fourth inclined surfaces with respect to the horizontal direction is gentler than the first and second inclined surfaces. Item 24. The external rearview mirror according to Item 23. 25. The gear of claim 5, wherein the gear is supported by a journal bearing on the spigot, the elastic means having elastic means acting between an upper end of the spigot and a top of the gear. External rearview mirror. 26. The external rearview mirror of claim 25, wherein the plurality of second inclined surfaces are located at a base of the spigot. 27. A clutch plate located between a lower surface of the gear and a base of the spigot, wherein the plurality of second inclined surfaces are located on an upper surface of the clutch plate. Plate, the lower surface of the clutch plate, and the mirror head can be rotated even when the driving means is operating.
A lower surface of the clutch plate, which also has sufficient holding force to restrain movement between the clutch plate and the spigot when sufficient head force is applied;
26. The external rearview mirror of claim 25, comprising a clutch stop located between said spigot and said spigot. 28. The clutch stop includes a plurality of protrusions on the mirror head at the base of the spigot, the plurality of protrusions corresponding to a base on the clutch plate where the protrusions are located. 28. A recess having a recess.
External rearview mirror as described. 29. The clutch plate according to claim 29,
29. The external rearview mirror of claim 28, comprising a rotation limiter located between the clutch plate and the gear that limits the amount of relative rotation between the gear and the gear. 30. The rotating limiter comprises a plurality of engaging vertical surfaces on both the clutch plate and the gear, which are butt-connected to prevent relative rotation, wherein the engaging vertical surfaces 30. The external rearview mirror of claim 29, wherein the external rearview mirror is spaced in one rotational direction to allow sufficient movement between the first and second inclined surfaces. 31. The second inclined surface engages a corresponding vertical surface on the gear to further prevent relative rotation.
4. A vertical edge adjacent to its highest end.
0 external rearview mirror. 32. Another vertical surface includes a post on the clutch plate extending into a recess in the gear, wherein the recess has a surface for engaging the post, the surface comprising the post and the recess surface. Before engaging and preventing relative rotation,
32. The outer bag according to claim 31, having a sufficient space between the first and second inclined surfaces to allow sufficient movement.
mirror. 33. A clutch plate located between the upper surface of the gear and the elastic means restrained from rotating with respect to the spigot, the upper surface of the gear and the driving means operating. The mirror head is rotatable, and when the clutch clasp is released, the movement between the clutch plate and the gear wheel when sufficient force is applied to the mirror head. 26. The external rearview mirror of claim 25, further comprising: a clutch stop located between the clutch plate and a lower surface of the clutch plate, the clutch catch having sufficient holding force to restrain the rear surface of the vehicle. 34. The clutch catch having a plurality of protrusions on the upper surface of the gear and a plurality of recesses in the clutch plate where the protrusions are located.
3. An external rearview mirror according to 3. 35. A lifting plate positioned between a lower surface of the gear and a base of the spigot, supported by the spigot by a journal bearing, and having the plurality of second inclined surfaces on an upper surface thereof. Engaging a corresponding fourth ramp on the top surface of the gear;
The third and fourth inclined surfaces are located on the gear having a third inclined surface, and the inclination directions of the third and fourth inclined surfaces are the same as the inclination directions of the first and second inclined surfaces. And a helper plate linked to the lifting plate so that the inclination angle of the fourth inclined surface with respect to the horizontal direction is smaller than the inclined angles of the first and second inclined surfaces and cannot rotate separately. An upper surface of a helper plate, the elastic means restrained from rotating with respect to the spigot, an upper surface of the helper plate, and the mirror head can rotate even when the driving means is operating;
The release of the clutch detent causes the movement between the clutch plate and the combination of the lifting plate, gear and helper plate to be restrained when sufficient force is applied to the mirror head. 26. The external rearview mirror of claim 25, further comprising a clutch stop located between the clutch plate and the lower surface of the clutch plate having sufficient holding force. 36. The clutch stopper according to claim 36, wherein:
36. The external rearview mirror of claim 35, comprising a plurality of protrusions on the top surface of the plate, and a plurality of recesses on the clutch plate where the protrusions are located. 37. The method according to claim 37, wherein the actuator comprises the mirror
A shaft supported by journal bearings so that it can slide relative to the head; and one end of the shaft such that when the drive means is first actuated, the force applied to the catch is released. A worm drive on a shaft engaged with the gear so that a portion can move the mirror head relative to the elastic means and move along the longitudinal axis of the shaft by rotation of the worm gear. 4. The external rearview mirror of claim 3, comprising an apparatus. 38. The spigot slidably engaged by the mirror head further includes a housing supported by a journal bearing, the resilient means engaging the catch. An actuating coil spring located between the housing and the mirror head, wherein when the drive means is first activated, one end of the shaft pushes the mirror head and the catch Wherein the shaft is slidably supported by journal bearings within the housing such that the worm gear moves the shaft to compress the spring such that the force applied to the shaft is released. Item 38. The external rearview mirror according to Item 37. 39. Further, the clutch head located between the gear and the spigot and the mirror head can be rotated even when the driving means is operated, and by releasing the clutch stopper, When sufficient force is applied to the mirror head, a force is applied between the gear and the spigot to retain the clutch catch so that movement of the gear relative to the clutch catch is prevented. 39. The external rearview mirror of claim 38, comprising: a spring that applies pressure.